Military unmanned aerial reconnaissance systems are an effective tool to protect both the lives of our soldiers in the field and the overall national security. They are often used as part of a network of reconnaissance and surveillance systems to gather information on the position, movement, and activities of enemy forces. This information can then be used to develop appropriate strategies and tactics to counter enemy forces. Using reconnaissance aerial systems, military operations can be conducted more efficiently, humanitarian resources can be optimized, and knowledge about potential threats can be increased. Thus, they are essential to protect national security interests.

The overall objective of the project is to scientifically investigate the possibilities, develop and validate a UAS with a NATO Class II dimension and logistics, and NATO Class III autonomous capabilities through artificial intelligence (AI). Furthermore, the project aims at supporting military relevant payloads to meet the specific requirements and scenarios of the stakeholder and to be operational in the military relevant environment.

The following detailed objectives are to be achieved in close cooperation with the requirement holder:

• Development of the airborne unmanned reconnaissance system with polymer electrolyte fuel cell and photovoltaics for energy efficiency and hybrid propulsion at high altitudes (5 - 7 km) and long flight duration (18+ hours). Sustainable biocomposites and hybrids with carbon and glass fibre are being used.
• Develop autonomous capabilities for BLOS operation, performing cooperative and uncooperative obstacle detection and avoidance maneuvers using AI. In addition, directive air-to-ground communications will provide robust and secure real-time control and data connectivity.

* Validation according to the military scenarios of the stakeholder through the use of military relevant payloads and realistic operational environments and environmental conditions.